windows-builder

Automate Windows machine image builds with HashiCorp Packer and WinRM.

Updated Aug 27, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/benonions/dotfiles --skill windows-builder-benonions
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: windows-builder
Source: https://github.com/benonions/dotfiles/tree/main/codex/.codex/skills/community/hashicorp-agent-skills/packer/builders/skills/windows-builder
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/benonions/dotfiles --skill windows-builder-benonions

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill automates the creation of customized Windows machine images for various cloud platforms and virtualization environments using HashiCorp Packer.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Automated Image Creation: Build Windows AMIs (AWS), Azure images, or VMware templates.
  • WinRM Communication: Configures and utilizes WinRM for secure communication with Windows instances during the build process.
  • Provisioning: Installs software, applies Windows Updates, and configures the operating system using PowerShell scripts.
  • Use Case: Streamline your infrastructure deployment by creating a standardized Windows Server 2022 image with pre-installed IIS and essential tools, ready for immediate use in your production environment.

Quick Start

Use the windows-builder skill to create a new Windows Server 2022 image for AWS using the provided Packer configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions about windows-builder

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I build Windows images with Packer for AWS and Azure?

To build Windows images with Packer, you configure WinRM communication and use PowerShell provisioners to automate software installation, apply updates, and produce standardized AMIs or Azure images.

Can I use PowerShell scripts to provision Windows machine images in VMware?

Yes, you can use PowerShell scripts to provision Windows machine images in VMware. The process executes PowerShell provisioners via WinRM to install software and configure the OS during the VMware template build.

How does WinRM communication work when creating Windows AMIs with Packer?

WinRM communication enables Packer to securely connect to Windows instances during the build process, allowing the execution of PowerShell scripts for operating system configuration and software provisioning.

What is the best way to automate Windows Server 2022 image creation and include Windows Updates?

The best way to automate Windows Server 2022 image creation is using HashiCorp Packer with PowerShell provisioners, which handles software installation and applies Windows Updates to create a standardized template.

Does Packer require WinRM to build customized Windows virtualization templates?

Yes, Packer requires WinRM configuration to build customized Windows virtualization templates. WinRM provides the secure communication channel needed to execute PowerShell provisioning scripts on the target Windows instance.

What are the limitations of using PowerShell provisioners for Windows image building?

Limitations of using PowerShell provisioners for Windows image building include the necessity of correctly configuring WinRM for communication and handling Windows-specific build processes, which can complicate automation across different cloud environments.